Mediation ... "the best resolution"

What Is Mediation?

Mediation is a voluntary and informal process in which a neutral person facilitates settlement discussion between the parties. Any settlement is voluntary.

Unlike a judge in a trial, or an arbitrator in an arbitration, the mediator does not impose a decision upon the parties. In a mediation, the parties themselves decide whether and how to settle the dispute.

The mediator guides the parties through a discussion of their problems or issues that need to be resolved and facilitates alternative solutions for the resolution of the dispute.

Most issues can be mediated: civil, family, probate, business, community, school, and so forth.

Mediation is non-binding unless the parties reach a settlement. In the absence of settlement, the parties lose none of their rights to trial by judge or jury.

What Are The Benefits of Mediation?

Do Mediators Have Any Special Training?

Although anyone can serve as a mediator if mutually agreed upon by both parties to the dispute, it is important to consider mediators based on their education, training and experience.

Many mediators, including most members of Upstate Mediation Network, have met a number of strict qualifications, including completion of an approved forty-hour training course in civil and/or family mediation.

Family mediators are trained to handle issues of separation, divorce, child custody, visitation, and property division. 

Civil mediators are trained to handle issues arising in civil lawsuits, including, for example, personal injury, contract disputes, employment disputes, and professional negligence claims.

What Is The Cost Of Mediation?

The mediation process is generally much less expensive to the parties and to the court system. The charges of a mediator are billed at an hourly rate.

The cost is generally divided between the parties, but other financial arrangements may be agreed upon by the parties.

Some mediators are willing to offer their services at reduced rates if the parties are indigent or where a benefit to the community might result from the mediation process.

How Long Does Mediation Take?

The mediation process varies in length depending on the agenda, the complexity of the issues, and the willingness of the parties to reach a resolution.

What Is Upstate Mediation Network?

Upstate Mediation Network (UMN) is a non-profit organization committed to promoting the resolution of disputes through mediation. UMN is affiliated with the South Carolina Council for Mediation and Alternative Dispute Resolution.

Membership in UMN is open to anyone who supports the goals of mediation. Our members include attorneys, clergy, educators, financial consultants, mental health professionals, real estate agents, and insurance professionals.

Some of our members serve as mediators in assisting parties to resolve disputes. All members are committed to resolving disputes through mediation.

Want More Information?

For a list of members of Upstate Mediation Network who offer mediation services; or for a list of speakers who are available to speak to your group; or for more information, call or write:

Upstate Mediation Network 
P. 0. Box 10564 
Greenville, SC 29603-0564, 
Phone: 864-467-9300